COURAGE – TO BE A GENIUS MARIA PRYMACHENKO

Abstract

The article aims to explain the relevance of folk artist Maria Prymachenko’s work in present times. Her artistic heritage carries a powerful message for future generations. The article discusses relevant topics that are related to current events. The artist’s timeless compositions are associated with Ukrainian naive art, reflecting the unique beauty of her inner world. This article examines artworks from the late 1980s to early 1990s that are part of Eduard Dymshyts’ private collection. The artworks were displayed at the «Maria Prymachenko. I give to Ukraine» exhibition, held at the National Museum in Lviv named after Andrey Sheptytskyi from July 17, 2022 to November 6, 2022. The artist’s compositions from her late period of creativity served as a summary of her life’s work. In the research, three major categories were identified: fantastic beasts and monsters, flower arrangements, and plot compositions. Fans are most intrigued and captivated by a vast collection of artistic pieces featuring mythical creatures, frightening monsters, exotic animals, and local wildlife. The signatures of Prymachenko, as well as the decorative drawings, are given significant attention as they help to reveal the content of the works. The combination of poetic signatures and bright compositions creates a complete tandem of visual and verbal art. The article utilized a comparative analysis of Prymachenko’s art from various periods, comparing works from sources to those on display at the exhibition. Expert art studies were consulted to identify the main themes and unique qualities of the artist’s work, as well as its connections to traditional folk art.